Almost 5 Years On From Heartbreaking "Not Really OK" Interview in Africa, Meghan Markle Says "We're Really Happy" During Nigeria Tour
A poignant update.
Meghan Markle has provided a heartwarming update on how she, Prince Harry, and their children are doing four years after they swapped royal life for a private existence in Southern California.
"We’re just doing great," the Duchess of Sussex told People during the couple's recent three-day visit to Nigeria, in West Africa. "And happy to be watching our family grow up and evolve. Of course, I'm happy. We're really happy."
The duchess' words are all the more poignant when compared with the last time she was undertaking an official visit to Africa, in 2019.
At the time, she and the duke, who were still working royals, brought their baby son Archie to South Africa together, with Harry going on to visit Malawi, Angola, and Botswana solo.
A post shared by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex
A photo posted by sussexroyal on
Back in 2019, Meghan made headlines when she admitted on camera to journalist Tom Bradby that she was "not really OK" as she attempted to balance royal duties with being a new mom and a newlywed.
ITV's @tombradby spoke to Meghan as he gained exclusive access to the royal couple as they toured Africa for 10 days with their son Archie.The documentary, Harry & Meghan: An African Journey, airs on Sunday at 9pm on @ITV #HarryandMeghan https://t.co/Uy21iE6ozJ pic.twitter.com/XYlHVytiHFOctober 18, 2019
Of course, some 18 months later in March 2021, we would hear more about how difficult she was finding royal life, during her interview with Oprah Winfrey—when she admitted to feeling suicidal before she and Harry stepped down from royal duties.
The Sussexes' recent Nigerian visit was reminiscent of royal tours, in that they packed in many official engagements with local leaders and organizations, but this time, the tone felt different—as they were visiting as private citizens (albeit with great influence).
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
"These trips are about us being able to go out and go and focus on the things that mean so much to us," Prince Harry told People. "And being able to be on the ground, to us, is what it’s all about."
Meghan added, "It's really meaningful. Just being able to connect to people...that's what makes it special."
Harry also stressed how important this particular trip was to him on an emotional level. "You know what Africa means to me over the years," he said. "It is a very, very special place, and to be able to include Nigeria now [in the Invictus Games], I’m very happy."
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based journalist, editor and author. She is the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of British Vogue, InStyle, Cosmopolitan, Refinery29 and SELF. Iris writes about everything from celebrity news and relationship advice to the pitfalls of diet culture and the joys of exercise. She has many opinions on Harry Styles, and can typically be found eating her body weight in cheap chocolate.
-
James Middleton Gives a Rare Update on Sister Kate’s Cancer Battle
The royal sibling said Princess Kate is "getting all the right support."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Meg Ryan Declares Fancy Sweatpants Are Front Row Material
The rom-com darling made a rare appearance at Loewe's show.
By Hanna Lustig Published
-
The Best Cashmere Sweaters Are Hiding in Brands’ Sale Sections
28 finds from Nordstrom, J.Crew, Saks, and more.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
Prince Harry Shocks Haunted House Employees During Surprise Jimmy Fallon Appearance
Can't blame them.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Shares What He Finds "Absolutely Terrifying" as a Parent
The Duke of Sussex wrapped up his trip to NYC by speaking out on an issue close to his heart.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Diddy’s 2011 Joke About Inviting Prince William and Prince Harry to His Wild Parties Resurfaces
"Why don't you come hang out with me?"
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince William Appeals to World Leaders at the UN Just Hours After Prince Harry's Appearance
The Prince of Wales made a video call after his brother's in-person visit.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
King Charles Is Reportedly Eager to "Make Up For Lost Time" with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet
A new report claims the King wants to move beyond "the odd video call."
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Gets Mistaken for Prince William By a '90s Star at Celeb-Filled Fundraiser
The social media oops happened during the One805Live! concert.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Judge Blocks Release of Prince Harry’s Visa Files After Some of His ‘Spare’ Revelations Were Questioned in Court By Right-Wing Think Tank
The Sept. 23 judgment is a major victory for the Duke of Sussex.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince Harry Reveals How Becoming a "Father for the Second Time" Changed Him
"Much has changed in my life and the world."
By Amy Mackelden Published